The Fourth of July. Independence Day. It's not just fireworks, cookouts, beer, and aliens blowing up the White House. Well, I suppose it is all those things- that's part of why we've come to appreciate it so much in America (least of all the aliens part). But it's important to remember that it's also much, much more.

Two hundred and thirty three years ago a group of rebels from a British colony wrote one of the most important documents ever produced- a declaration that reached far beyond where they could see, that would extend to places some of them could never imagine.

And through the last two hundred and thirty three years America has marched along towards that divine and lofty goal. Like any country, it has suffered its share of wars, depressions, and tragedies, but America has always fought to reach the bar that was set for it, breaking the bonds of racism and sexism as it has climbed towards an enduring and "more perfect union". I don't love my country because it's perfect- I love my country because, since July 4, 1776, it has tried to be.

So by all means, enjoy the fireworks, cookouts, and beer today. I certainly will. But also take a moment to remember the radical beliefs of a few dozen men and women that led a ragtag group of volunteer soldiers to victory against the greatest and strongest empire in the world. The beliefs that millions of men and women have bled and died for- that men and women halfway around the world are fighting for. The beliefs that, although they may not have originated in America, were collected on Independence Day and held up so that the world could see- that have shone the lights of freedom and equality from that day forth.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness...

Pursue happiness on your holiday... but spend a moment to reflect on why you're free to do so. Happy Fourth!

Well said. Happy fourth of july! Ill be the one lighting up the sky ;)

Happy 4th of july

Happy Fourth Of July For All Americans Out There